After a long and arduous search for their sister ship, the Kapital finally comes into contact with the Massive as Brian Wood’s consistently exceptional post-apocalyptic series gets closer to its final voyage.
Written by Brian Wood
Illustrated by Garry BrownThe Massive has been found! The story of its disappearance is as mind bending as Mary’s origin. But the solving of two mysteries only draws attention to the secret still unexplained: the reason for the Crash.
Huge revelations began unfolding when we last left our trusty Kapital crew. We were promised the discovery of the crew’s evasive “white whale” at the end of the last issue and Wood has lived up to that promise with great flair in “The Massive” #27. Wood continues to build suspense and unveil more surprises in the latest issue, while artist Garry Brown and colorist Jordie Bellaire continue depicting the desolation of the sea and its complex explorers who inhabit a world teeming with nuance.
It’s difficult to tell a story that touches on political and social themes without coming off as being preachy or boring. Brian Wood does nothing of the sort and has proven with “The Massive” (and in other works) that he can meld uncomfortable truths within various genres in one book. In this title (which is sadly ending in December), Wood has slowly and deliberately spun a yarn that has taken us to unexpected places and introduced us to fully-realized characters. We care about the crew of the Kapital and, in “The Massive” #27, become excited and afraid for what lies ahead for each one of them. A certain force of nature in this issue serves as a metaphor for the many themes that are close to Wood’s heart; plus, it’s just plain scary and exciting in a two page splash scene that engulfs the reader.
Although the story shines a light on very important and topical issues, the heart of the book resides in the characters. Wood demands that they come first. Their motivations and actions are complex and, like anyone thrown into a post-apocalyptic and unpredictable world, do certain things because they have to in order for them and the people they care about to survive. The reactions to the mystery of the ship and their impending physical and mental trials causes their strength and protective natures to shine in this issue. The tautness of the story reflects the bonded and unconventional family of characters that has been borne over the entirety of the series. They are just as complex and roiling as the world they are forced to inhabit.
Wood allows every character to have their moment to shine, no matter how large or small. Throughout “The Massive’s” run, he has been able to build complete characters that are deserving of our empathy. From the mysterious Mary to the conflicted Cal, Wood has allowed each individual room to breathe and have as much complexity as any human being. Now that we’re reaching the end of their story, the impact of decisions and responsibilities placed on each one of these characters in this issue is felt more intensely because of Wood’s deliberate storytelling.
There is a sense of desolation and roughness to Brown’s art that accentuates the post-apocalyptic world of “The Massive”. Many of the characters’ faces have sketchy lines and imperfections. A desolate atmosphere is conveyed in the sparse environment. The art, like the story, is kept simple. Only the ships, the people, and vast expanse of the sea populate a book that remains focused on story and character. Brown’s style perfectly complements Wood’s story and gives urgency to the plight of the Kapital’s crew.
Brown’s exquisite art is that much more powerful because of its simplicity. Pure, unadulterated emotion is able to be more intensely felt because the focus is on the characters’ experiences. We feel a sense of exultation when Lars spots the Massive, pumps his fists in the air, and blurts out an appropriate expletive. The heavy weight of responsibility placed on Ryan’s shoulders is felt when we look into those weary eyes and we can relate to her pout of resignation. The entire issue is imbued with a sense of familial love because of Brown’s art. Because of his art, the story makes much more of an impact.
Continued belowBellaire conjures stunning colors that enhance Brown’s art and add even more helpings of emotion and drama to the proceedings. Her coloring is the only hint of pure beauty in the book, which may be a purposeful decision. Yet color can be deceiving; Bellaire’s coloring is just as layered as the story and art. The pink and blue of the sky is gorgeous, yet ominous. That sky shines through the porthole of two sleeping people and serves as a spotlight on a waking Lars and a room covered in darkness. The large expanse of blue against the tiny ships is luminous against the drab darkness of the ships. The word “complexity” can’t seem to escape any aspect of this book, including the colors.
With only three issues left in the series, it’s sad to think that we’ll soon be bidding adieu to the crew of “The Massive”. It’s a testament to the exceptional work of Wood, Brown, and Bellaire that they are able to take us on a journey with such surprising twists and turns that end up being deliberate and appropriate. With darkness ever-present on the horizon, the tale of “The Massive” is one of hope and rebirth; out of such horrendous abuse that we inflict on ourselves and our world can come a healing. So far we have glimmers of light and portents of doom in the last chapters of this underrated gem of a book. “The Massive” #27 answers some questions while bringing up even more; the discovery of the Massive was only the beginning.
Final Verdict: 8.0 – With only three issues left, we’re sure to be in for a wild ride. If you’ve been reading the book, you’ll be quite satisfied with this issue. If you haven’t been reading, then the trades will be waiting for your eager hands.
